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by Scott Carpenter
Regrouting tile has always been a pretty easy task, except for the tedious business of scraping out the old grout. You can make this job almost a pleasure, however, with a couple of really slick tools.
REMOVING THE OLD GROUT
A can opener was once the grout-removal tool of choice. Now, by using carbide-tipped scrapers, saw and a Dremel or similar rotary tool, you can do the job with a dentist's speed and precision.
These tools work because they stay sharp for a long time. But remember, they cut ceramic tile and enamel tubs just as well as they remove grout. Work slowly until you get the hang of the tools, scrape up away from the tub, and use two hands for better control.
Each tool works differently and you'll need to switch from one to another as grout joints get wider or narrower. Cut the grout joints at least 1/8 in. deep. To get a first-class job, you should remove the grout on the entire wall, but you can still get a good job by removing only the stained grout and matching the color of the new grout to the old (not always simple task!).
Wear gloves, a dust mask and safety glasses, especially when using the rotary tool. Protect the tub by taping opened cardboard boxes onto the bottom and sides.
WHERE TO GET THE TOOLS
The Dremel rotary tool and similar machines are available at home centers for about $60. Outfit it with 1/16-in., 3/32-in. or 1/8-in. straight carbide bits, depending on the width of your grout lines. They can be ordered from Bon Tool Co. (800-444-7060) for about $10 each. The hook-shaped tool is a Gundlach No. 344 scoring cutter (about $5), available from professional tile stores. Call Gundlach at (618) 233-1781 to find a dealer near you. The triangular-tipped tool is a Sandvik paint scraper and is available from The Woodworkers' Store (800-279-4441) as No. 99912 for about $12. You can get the grout saw at most tile centers or from Bon Tool Co.
THE REGROUTING PROCESS
After removing the grout (Photos 1 and 2), the regrouting process is simple and pretty goof-proof. Follow the steps we show in Photo 3, 4, 5, 6. Purchase the grout and rubber float at any tile store, and specify unsanded grout (grout with sand is most often used for floors). When you're done sealing the grout (Photo 6), you can polish the tile with Gel-Gloss, available at home centers. Rub it on with a circular motion, let it dry, then wipe off the excess film. |
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REMOVING THE OLD GROUT is the only tough part about regrouting ceramic tile, but the right tools can make the job go fast. |
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GROUT REMOVAL TOOLS: The Dremel tool with a carbide bit quickly opens the joint. The hook-shaped Gundlach scoring cutter makes a deep cut and works well in narrow joints. The Sandvik scraper with the triangular cutting head works well on wider joints. |
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THE DREMEL TOOL quickly cuts a smooth, deep joint. Hold it nearly flat against the tile, then draw it downward while applying light pressure to the bit. To keep the dust under control, shut the bathroom door, cover the air registers, and turn on the bath fan. |
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